Children With Special Health Care Needs

Who Falls Under The Category Of Special Health Care Needs?

Any person with physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioral, cognitive, or emotional impairment or limiting condition that requires medical management, health care intervention, and/or use of specialized services or programs.

Do Special Children Have Special Dental Needs?

Yes, some special children are very susceptible to tooth decay, gum disease or oral trauma. Others under few medications were detrimental to dental health. Special children have physical difficulty with effective dental habits/ oral hygiene maintenance at home. Every child can enjoy a healthy smile. Since dental disease is preventable, if dental care is started early and followed consciously.

How Can I Prevent Dental Problems For My Special Child?

A first dental visit by the first birthday will start your child on a lifetime of good dental health. The pediatric dentist will take a full medical history. Gentle examination of your child’s teeth, gums under knee-to-knee examination and then plan preventive care designed for your child’s need.

Will Preventive Dentistry Benefit My Child?

Definitely yes, your child will benefit from the preventive approach recommended for all children. Effective brushing, flossing, moderate snacking, adequate fluoride is essential for good oral hygiene. Home care takes just 2 minutes for twice a day to prevents needless dental problems. Regular professional cleaning and fluoride treatments, sealant placement in the chewing surface of the molars with deep stained pit and fissures are also beneficial to prevent dental cavities.

Will The Treatment Change Your Child’s Health?

Absolutely. Pediatric dentists have two or more years of advanced training beyond dental school. Their education as specialists focuses on care for children with special needs. In addition, pediatric dental offices are designed to be physically accessible for special patients. Pediatric dentists, because of their expertise, are often the clinicians of choice for the dental care of adults with special needs as well.

Will My Child Need Special Care During Dental Treatment?

Some children need more support than a gentle, caring manner to feel comfortable during dental treatment. Restraint or mild sedation may benefit your special child. If a child needs extensive treatment, the paediatric dentist may provide care in the local hospital. Your paediatric dentist has comprehensive education in behaviour management, sedation and anaesthesia techniques. He/she will select the appropriate mode of treatment based on the specific health needs of your child, then discuss with parents regarding the benefits, limits and risk associated with that treatment.